Take steps to prevent spread of aquatic invasive species
For many Nebraskans, Memorial Day weekend marks the beginning of summer and the start of the boating and water recreation season. However, one troublesome invertebrate has the potential to disrupt summer fun: the zebra mussel.
These are small, D-shaped clams with alternating light and dark bands across their shells. They can be as small as a pencil eraser. These mussels are an invasive species, meaning they are not native to Nebraska and can damage the state’s ecosystems and economy once established.
Zebra mussels form dense colonies and filter important nutrients from the water that native species rely on to survive, reducing fishing opportunities in Nebraska. They also litter swimming beaches with their sharp shells and can damage public and private infrastructure.
These mussels are spread by boaters and anglers by “hitchhiking” on the undersides of boats and on angling equipment. Veligers, or zebra mussel larvae, are microscopic and can survive in a single drop of water for several days. Adult mussels can live out of water for up to a month. To prevent their spread, it is important to ensure all boating and angling equipment are cleaned, drained of any standing water, and allowed to dry completely before entering another water body.
The Nebraska water bodies with established zebra mussel populations are Lewis and Clark Lake, Lake Yankton, the Missouri River, Offutt Air Force Base Lake, and Beaver Lake near Plattsmouth.
To combat the spread of zebra mussels and other aquatic invasive species, Game and Parks staff will conduct boat inspections at boat ramps statewide this summer. Since its implementation in 2020, the Aquatic Invasive Species Program has inspected more than 26,000 watercraft across the state.
Preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species is a responsibility shared by all Nebraskans. All water recreationalists should remember to Clean, Drain, and Dry their watercraft and gear every time they leave the water:
CLEAN – Rinse your watercraft, trailer, angling gear and other equipment. Remove all aquatic vegetation and animal species from your equipment.
DRAIN – Allow your watercraft to drain at the ramp by removing the boat plug and draining all live wells and ballast tanks.
DRY – Let your watercraft, trailer and other equipment dry for at least seven days before visiting another water body.
Visit CleanDrainDry.org/ for more details on the Clean, Drain, Dry Procedure and OutdoorNebraska.gov/
The public is encouraged to report any suspected observations of zebra mussels or other aquatic invasive species to Game and Parks at 402-471-7602 or at [email protected].